Zeleski State Forest Camp 3 - Secluded Camp Site

For Ohioans who truly embrace the spirit of backcountry adventure, Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 - Secluded Camp Site offers an authentic and rewarding experience. Located deep within the vast Zaleski State Forest, with the approximate address 9P83+M9, Nelsonville, OH 45764, USA, this designated primitive campsite is a haven for backpackers and groups seeking genuine solitude and immersion in nature. Unlike typical campgrounds where vehicles are parked right at your site, Camp 3 requires a hike in, rewarding your effort with a peaceful and expansive setting far from the noise of civilization.

Zaleski State Forest, the second-largest state forest in Ohio, covers an impressive 27,822 acres of rugged, heavily forested Appalachian foothills. The forest is known for its extensive network of trails, including the popular Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail (formerly Zaleski Backpack Trail), on which Camp 3 is strategically located. As one reviewer aptly put it, "Nice Backcountry campsite. Plenty of space for a few groups." This ample space and secluded nature are precisely what draws those looking to truly disconnect and experience wilderness camping in its purest form.

Camp 3, along with other designated backpack campsites in Zaleski, provides essential primitive amenities while allowing you to feel truly removed from the everyday. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace traffic, and the vast Ohio sky provides the perfect backdrop for stargazing. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day backpacking trip or simply seeking a quiet overnight escape, Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 offers a unique opportunity for Ohioans to connect with the wild heart of our state.

Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 - Secluded Camp Site is nestled within the expansive Zaleski State Forest, located in southeastern Ohio, near Nelsonville. The provided address, 9P83+M9, Nelsonville, OH 45764, USA, is a Plus Code, indicating a precise location within the forest rather than a typical street address. This signifies its true backcountry nature, as it's not directly accessible by vehicle.

To reach Camp 3, visitors will typically access one of the main trailheads for the Zaleski Backpack Trail. The primary trailhead is located at the historic Hope Schoolhouse (27800 Wheelabout Road, McArthur, OH 45651), off State Route 278. From this trailhead, Camp 3 is located on the North Loop of the backpacking trail. The journey to the campsite involves hiking, with distances varying depending on which loop you choose to incorporate into your trip. For example, the North Loop is approximately 6.9 miles long.

Despite its secluded nature, Zaleski State Forest is well-situated for Ohio residents. It is accessible via State Routes 278, 56, and other local roads from surrounding towns like Nelsonville and McArthur. While you'll drive into a rural area, the main roads are maintained. Visitors must be prepared for a hike to reach the campsite, carrying all their gear. It's highly recommended to carry a detailed map of Zaleski State Forest's backpacking trails and potentially download it for offline use, as cell service can be unreliable in parts of the forest. This "hike-in" accessibility is a key aspect of the secluded experience Camp 3 offers, ensuring a true wilderness feel.

As a backcountry campsite within Zaleski State Forest, Camp 3 provides primitive services, focusing on essential needs for backpackers and those seeking a rustic experience.

• Designated Primitive Campsites: Camp 3 is one of three designated backpack campsites along the Zaleski Backpack Trail. It offers "plenty of space for a few groups," emphasizing its suitability for multiple parties or larger individual groups.

• Latrine: Each designated backpack campsite, including Camp 3, is equipped with a latrine (outhouse) for basic waste disposal, a crucial amenity in primitive settings. Campers should remember to bring their own toilet paper.

• Potable Water: Potable water is generally available year-round at these backpack campsites via cisterns. However, it's advised that backpackers carry their own water, especially in winter when road conditions might prevent servicing of water caches. Treating or filtering any water from natural sources is always recommended.

• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are provided at the campsites for campfires, adhering to forest rules that prohibit fires outside of these rings or portable stoves.

• Self-Registration Permit: Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis, and no reservations are taken. Hikers are required to self-register for a free permit at the trailhead kiosk (e.g., Hope Schoolhouse) before entering the trail. A copy of the permit stub must be carried by the camper.

• Trash Disposal: Zaleski State Forest operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" principle for primitive campsites. Campers are responsible for packing out all their refuse to maintain the pristine condition of the forest.

• Pet-Friendly: Domestic dogs and cats are permitted in the backpack campgrounds and on the trail, provided they are leashed or under control at all times.

Zaleski State Forest Camp 3, and its surrounding forest, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for those drawn to primitive camping and backcountry exploration.

• True Seclusion: As a designated backcountry campsite requiring a hike-in, Camp 3 provides a level of solitude and quiet that is hard to find in car-accessible campgrounds. This "secluded" nature is a primary draw for many.

• Ample Space for Groups: The campsite is noted for having "plenty of space for a few groups," making it ideal for scout troops, hiking clubs, or multiple friends embarking on a backpacking trip together.

• Part of the Zaleski Backpack Trail: Camp 3 is integrated into the Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail, a renowned 28.8-mile loop trail with shorter loop options (South, Middle, and North loops, each around 10 miles). This provides direct access to extensive hiking opportunities.

• Diverse Terrain and Scenery: The Zaleski State Forest offers varied terrain, including deep ravines, narrow ridges, mature forests, and interesting geological features like rock outcroppings. The trails pass through diverse ecosystems, providing a rich natural experience.

• Historical and Educational Points: The backpacking trail is designed to introduce "educational, scenic, and historic aspects of the forest." Hikers can encounter remnants of Ohio's iron-producing era, including the historic Hope Furnace, and perhaps even the allegedly haunted Moonville Tunnel, adding intrigue to the hike.

• Wildlife Viewing: The expansive, undisturbed forest is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation.

• Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, Zaleski State Forest provides magnificent dark skies, perfect for stargazing and appreciating the constellations.

• Winter Camping Potential: For experienced backpackers, the forest offers opportunities for winter camping, though preparedness for changing weather and conditions is crucial.

As a primitive backcountry campsite within an Ohio State Forest, Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense. The value proposition of this type of camping lies in its affordability and the unique experience it provides.

Camping at Zaleski State Forest's designated backpack sites, including Camp 3, is entirely free. There is no fee required for the self-registration permit. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective option for individuals and groups looking to enjoy a multi-day backpacking adventure without the expense of developed campgrounds. The "promotion" here is the unparalleled access to pristine wilderness and an extensive trail system at no charge, a significant benefit for Ohio residents seeking an affordable outdoor escape.

Any specific events or guided programs within Zaleski State Forest would be advertised by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) or the Zaleski Forest Headquarters, rather than directly tied to the campsite itself. For the most current information on forest rules, trail conditions, or any public programs, it is always best to consult the official ODNR website or contact the forest office.

For general inquiries about Zaleski State Forest, its backpacking trails, or primitive camping regulations, please use the following contact details:

• Address (General Forest Headquarters): Zaleski State Forest, P.O. Box 330, State Route 278, Zaleski, Ohio 45698 (Note: Camp 3 is a hike-in site within the forest, not at this address).

• Phone (Zaleski State Forest Office): (740) 596-5781

• ODNR General Contact: (877) 247-8733

Given that Camp 3 is a backcountry site, direct communication for reservations is not applicable as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration at the trailhead. However, contacting the forest office can provide valuable insights into trail conditions, water availability updates, and any temporary closures that might impact your backpacking trip. Always carry a physical map of the Zaleski Backpack Trail when planning your visit.

For Ohioans, Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 - Secluded Camp Site offers an exceptionally suitable and rewarding experience for those yearning for a true wilderness immersion. Unlike more developed campgrounds, this backcountry gem provides a profound sense of escape, making it ideal for locals who want to disconnect from urban life and truly embrace the solitude of nature without traveling great distances out of state. Its location within southeastern Ohio allows for a relatively accessible drive for many, positioning it as a prime destination for weekend backpacking trips or longer, multi-day adventures.

The primary appeal for Ohio residents lies in the unadulterated primitive camping experience. The ample space at Camp 3, coupled with basic but essential amenities like latrines and potable water, strikes a perfect balance for those who appreciate "roughing it" while still having fundamental provisions. Furthermore, the campsite's integration into the extensive and well-regarded Zaleski Backpack Trail means immediate access to some of the state's most diverse and scenic hiking. This includes opportunities to explore historic sites like the Hope Furnace and Moonville Tunnel, adding a unique cultural dimension to the outdoor adventure.

Crucially, the "first-come, first-served" and free-of-charge nature of Zaleski's primitive campsites, including Camp 3, makes it an incredibly economical choice for locals. This removes financial barriers, encouraging more Ohioans to explore the vast natural beauty of their home state. For the backpacker, the nature lover, or any Ohioan seeking a profound connection with the wild, Zaleski State Forest Camp 3 promises an unforgettable and accessible adventure that truly embodies the spirit of self-reliant outdoor exploration.